3 Aspects Becky Harrison Designs Immediately Focus on In Your Renovation Project this Spring
Planning, planning & planning.
In my 16 years experience as a Project Manager I would say that universally the planning stage of a project is the most undervalued part of every project. I do understand why, clients have an idea and then they just want to start. However, in my experience, the projects that allocate appropriate planning time are always the ones with the most successful* delivery.
*note use of successful, most projects deliver “eventually” but what we are interested in is ones that deliver successfully - against a defined definition of success set out at the start of the project. Before any work has commenced.
When clients think about a renovation, they often picture the exciting part first i.e. what it is going to look like when it is all done. The new layout, beautiful finishes, and the transformation of a space are all important to have clear in your mind BUT the truth is, the success of any renovation starts long before the first wall is knoecked down or the first wall is painted.
Before we start discussing the exciting finishes are three things Becky Harrison Designs focus on immediately when taking on a new renovation project.
These early steps are what set the foundation for a smooth, well-managed process and a result that truly works for you.
1. We Take Time to Understand Your Requirements
No two clients are the same, and no two homes are treated the same way.
Before any design or construction decisions are made, we spend time understanding exactly what you want from the space.
This means learning about:
How you live day to day
What currently isn’t working in your home
Your style preferences
Functional needs for your household
The feeling you want the finished space to create
2) We Check Your Budget
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is starting with ideas before understanding what is realistically achievable within their budget.
At the start of every project, we take time to understand:
Your overall investment range
Your priorities and non-negotiables
Where it makes sense to spend more for quality or long-term value
Where we can make smart savings without compromising the end result
This stage is essential because a clear budget allows us to create a plan that is both aspirational and practical. It also helps avoid scope creep, unexpected costs, and difficult decisions later in the process.
A well-managed renovation should feel exciting, not financially stressful.
3. We Set a Realistic Timeline
Every renovation has moving parts: design decisions, approvals, materials, contractors, deliveries, and unexpected site conditions.
That’s why one of the first things we do is map out a realistic timeline for the project.
This includes:
Defining key project phases
Setting milestone dates
Planning lead times for materials and suppliers
Coordinating trades and contractors
Building in flexibility for the unexpected
A strong timeline does more than keep things on track. It gives you clarity, helps reduce delays, and ensures every part of the project is properly coordinated.
Good project management is about creating order before the work begins.
The planning stage is where great design really begins. It ensures the finished result is not just visually beautiful, but tailored to your lifestyle.
A successful renovation is never just about the build, it’s about creating a space that feels right for you.
Why This Process Matters
Renovation projects can feel overwhelming without the right structure.
But when budget, timeline, and requirements are clearly defined from the start, everything becomes easier:
Better decisions
Fewer delays
Smoother communication
Less stress
Better results
Considering an Interior Project in the South West?
We work with private clients across the South West, including Bath, Bristol, the Cotswolds, Dorset, Somerset Devon and Cornwall delivering full-service interior design from concept through to completion.
If you are planning a project and would like to explore working together, you can learn more about our approach on our Services page or get in touch below.